10 Day Trips From Palo Alto

Palo Alto’s location in the heart of Silicon Valley places it within easy reach of some of Northern California’s most popular destinations. Whether you're interested in nature, coastal views, culture, or culinary experiences, there are many appealing day trips from Palo Alto, CA, that offer something different without requiring an overnight stay. Below are ten day trips ideal for individuals, couples, or families looking to explore beyond city limits. These options also highlight the region's accessibility—a notable advantage for those considering Palo Alto, CA, real estate.

Approximately 40 minutes west of Palo Alto, Half Moon Bay offers coastal views, beach access, and local dining. Depending on the season, visitors can walk the Coastal Trail, visit Pillar Point Harbor, or stop by a local farm stand. A visit to Half Moon Bay State Beach or the downtown area can round out the day. The area also has several local cafés and seafood restaurants that make for an easy lunch stop.

Just over an hour's drive south, Santa Cruz provides a range of options for both entertainment and outdoor recreation. Families often visit the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, while others explore local hiking trails or enjoy a walk along West Cliff Drive. Downtown Santa Cruz offers casual shopping, and the nearby UCSC Arboretum provides a quieter alternative for nature enthusiasts. It’s a flexible destination with activities for all ages.

A 45-minute drive north, San Francisco offers a change in scenery with world-class museums, restaurants, and historical sites. Highlights for a day trip include Golden Gate Park, the Ferry Building, and neighborhoods like North Beach or the Mission. Public transit options like Caltrain and BART also make it possible to visit without driving. It's an efficient choice for both leisure and business-related visits.

About two hours from Palo Alto, Napa Valley is well-suited for a full-day visit centered on wine tasting and scenic drives. Many visitors plan stops at several wineries, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, and explore nearby towns like Yountville or St. Helena. Guided wine tours are available for those who prefer not to drive. Off-season visits offer fewer crowds and easier reservations.

Roughly 90 minutes away, Monterey is known for the Monterey Bay Aquarium and the coastal stretch along Cannery Row. It’s a good choice for families and solo travelers alike. Visitors can also walk the recreational trail along the waterfront or take a short drive to 17-Mile Drive for scenic views. Monterey’s dining scene includes seafood-focused restaurants as well as casual options near the wharf.

Located north of San Francisco, Muir Woods offers a network of trails through old-growth redwood trees. It’s a popular destination for hiking, photography, and quiet nature walks. Visitors should plan ahead with a timed-entry reservation for parking. A stop in nearby Mill Valley or a drive up Mount Tamalpais can extend the outing.

Just across the Golden Gate Bridge, Sausalito is a waterfront town with shops, art galleries, and restaurants. Visitors often walk or bike along the shoreline, explore local boutiques, or take a ferry ride back to San Francisco. The scenic views of the Bay and city skyline make it a relaxing place to spend an afternoon. Parking is generally available but limited on weekends.

Closer to home but still worth a day’s outing, the Stanford Dish area and Los Altos Hills offer local hiking trails and open space preserves. The Dish Loop is a 3.7-mile paved trail with moderate elevation, commonly used by residents for exercise. After the hike, many stop in downtown Los Altos for coffee, casual dining, or browsing local shops. It’s a convenient choice for those with limited time.

About an hour southwest, Pescadero is a small coastal town known for its rural feel and natural beauty. Popular stops include Pescadero State Beach and the nearby Año Nuevo State Park, where elephant seals can be seen in winter months. Local favorites include Duarte’s Tavern and the Arcangeli Grocery Company. Many pair a visit to Pescadero with a coastal drive along Highway 1.

Mount Tamalpais, or "Mt. Tam," is located in Marin County and offers panoramic views of the Bay Area from its higher elevations. Hikers can choose from a variety of trails ranging in difficulty. The East Peak Fire Lookout offers one of the most accessible viewpoints. On clear days, it's possible to see as far as the Farallon Islands and Sierra Nevada range.

Kathleen Pasin has long-standing ties to Palo Alto, having been raised in the area and remaining actively involved in the community. With over two decades of experience in the local housing market, she brings a proven track record and a detail-oriented approach to every client relationship. Kathleen is well aware that real estate transactions can be complex and occasionally overwhelming, so she focuses on reducing that stress by offering attentive, hands-on service throughout the entire process. Her personalized method ensures clients feel supported and well-informed at every stage. Whether questions arise during a listing or a search for a new property, [Kathleen Pasin](https://kathleenpasin.com/) is consistently accessible and ready to assist.

If you're looking to buy or sell a home or have any questions about the Palo Alto, CA, real estate market, contact Kathleen Pasin today.